Undoubtedly the most successful novel-adaptation franchise of all time is J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter series which had taken the world by storm upon its release in theatres. Taking the audiences on a mystical and fantastic journey through the world of wizards and magic, the adaptation managed to capture the true essence of the novel that the author wrote and then some. The entire franchise is estimated to be around $10 Billion.
And as with every hyper-successful film franchise, being a part of the cast is something of an honor for many actors who dedicate their heart and soul to making its success even more prominent. And so, when an actor, unfortunately, misses out on the opportunity, they regret it, even though a little bit. This time, Brian Cox recalls the time when he almost became a part of the franchise, but lost the role to a good friend.
Brian Cox Recalls The Time He Lost A Role In Harry Potter
The feeling of disappointment always stays with you when you miss an opportunity that could’ve changed your life and career, and this is something that many actors have felt in the Hollywood industry. Brian Cox, a very well-renowned name in the industry had to also face such a dilemma when he lost the role of Mad-Eye Moody in Harry Potter and The Goblet Of Fire.
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In the books and the films, Alastor Moody is a former Auror, who is a wizard or witch that works as a highly trained law enforcement official for a wizarding governing body, the Ministry of Magic, and help them catch corrupt and evil magicians. Cox wanted to play the character very much, but due to the appearances and other aspects, the role was finally given to his friend Brendan Gleeson who was a better fit for the role. In his memoir Putting The Rabbit in The Hat, the Churchill actor revealed how he felt after the incident. He said:
“Harry Potter. That’s another one they ask me about. Harry fucking Potter. I think someone had a burning cross held up for me not to be in Harry Potter, because all my pals were in it. I think the part I might have played was the one that Brendan Gleeson got, Mad-Eye Moody, but Brendan was more in fashion than I was at that point, and that’s very much the way of the world in my business, so he got it. Also, he’s much better than I would have been.”
Although Cox couldn’t be a part of the Harry Potter franchise, he has been part of many other successful franchises, including the Bourne series.
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What Is Next In The Wizarding World?
Even after the end of the series in Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part 2, the craze of the wizarding world is still strong among the fans of the books and/or the movies. With all these opportunities to cash in, Warner Bros. has a lot of ideas that could help them reach this objective. There have been rumors of a two-film adaptation of Harry Potter and The Cursed Child in the works, along with a complete reboot of the original movie series with new actors for the new audience. Although these are just speculation, they also act as hope for the fans.
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The Harry Potter Series, all parts now streaming on Peacock.
Source: GQ
